Cons

No reservations policy means long waits at restaurants during peak season

Little within walking distance

Bottom Line

This adults-only resort lives up to the Excellence name, offering the standard amenities of the luxury chain: multiple attractive pools, numerous dining options, dozens of activities, and a solid spa with beachside treatment huts. The abundance of marble and columns throughout the property might be a bit too ostentatious for some, but it's definitely impressive -- as are the rooms. The rooms feature Jacuzzis and open bathrooms, which shouldn't be a problem for most visitors choosing an adults-only resort. All have terraces or balconies, and a gorgeous stretch of beach is right outside the door.

Oyster Hotel Review

Location

The Excellence Riviera Cancun sits on a pretty stretch of sand off Highway 307. There’s little within walking distance, but Puerto Morelos’ attractions and Cancun International Airport are just a quick drive away, and proximity to the main road means easy access to major sites, shopping, and nightlife.

Puerto Morelos is a former fishing village located halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. The area serves as a perfect compromise for anyone who wants to enjoy Cancun's stunning beaches but doesn't want them to be overrun by hordes of tourists. The impressive reefs just offshore attract a fair share of divers, and many come to take a dip in the inland cenotes (massive sinkholes filled with crystal clear groundwater). Note that there's a lot of seaweed at the beach, despite the hotel regularly raking the beach and could pose an issue for some guests. The laid-back vibe of the area makes it great for spending a day lounging or exploring, and unwinding with dinner at a beachfront restaurant, all without the fear of having to deal with packs of rowdy spring breakers.

15-minute drive to Cancun International Airport

11-minute drive to Puerto Morelos' shopping and dining

30-minute drive to Playa del Carmen

30-minute drive to downtown Cancun (Ciudad Cancun)

75-minute drive to the Mayan ruins at Tulum

2.5-hour drive to Chichen Itza ruins

Bottom Line

This adults-only resort lives up to the Excellence name, offering the standard amenities of the luxury chain: multiple attractive pools, numerous dining options, dozens of activities, and a solid spa with beachside treatment huts. The abundance of marble and columns throughout the property might be a bit too ostentatious for some, but it's definitely impressive -- as are the rooms. The rooms feature Jacuzzis and open bathrooms, which shouldn't be a problem for most visitors choosing an adults-only resort. All have terraces or balconies, and a gorgeous stretch of beach is right outside the door.